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Sleepy Driving Can Lead To Danger

It seems like it should be a minor issue. Who would drive when they are too tired to safely operate a vehicle? The growing answer is “too many people.” Research has found that a drowsy driver is as dangerous as a drunk driver, and because of our lifestyle, the demands of business and a general lack of awareness of the issue, it is much more serious than many would guess.

60% Of Americans Have Driven Drowsy

One study found a majority of Americans have driven while feeling drowsy. Most are lucky. They arrive at their destination without meeting with an accident. But tens of thousands are less fortunate. Their vehicle is involved in a crash, sometimes alone but often with another vehicle and driver. The consequences of these collisions can be life-changing.

If you have been injured in a motor vehicle crash with a driver who may have been asleep at the wheel, we can help. At Glenda Mitchell Law Firm, our lawyer understands the difficulty of dealing with all of the ramifications that follow a serious accident. We can help you obtain the compensation you need to recover from your injuries and move forward with your life. If you have been involved in an accident caused by drowsy driving, contact our office today to learn more.

Many Factors Lead To Drowsy Driving

In our society, it’s easy to become fatigued while driving. Parents who have to deal with young children, workers who work overnight and truckers faced with unrelenting demands of delivery schedules can all be pushed to drive when they shouldn’t. Like drunk driving, fatigue reduces a driver’s ability to recognize their own impairment. From slowed reaction times to outright falling asleep while driving, these drivers place themselves and any motorist, bicyclist or pedestrian near them at risk.

Common Questions After A Drowsy Driving Incident

Another form of distracted driving around Georgia is drowsy driving. It is just as dangerous, and unfortunately just as common. If you find yourself involved in an accident, it is crucial that you seek legal representation. Glenda Mitchell Law Firm is here to help. By scheduling a free consultation, we can discuss your options and how to best move forward.

How common is drowsy driving?

The National Sleep Foundation reported that nearly 40% of drivers have fallen asleep behind the wheel, and even more have driven when they did not feel fully awake and alert behind the wheel.

What should I look out for if someone is driving drowsy?

To avoid a serious accident because of drowsy driving, you should:

  • Be aware of the time: Drowsy driving is most common in the early morning hours and the late afternoon
  • Watch for drifting drivers: Drowsy drivers often hit the shoulder or drift from their lane
  • Always drive defensively: If you are aware of your surroundings, you can react faster to obstacles and drowsy drivers

How dangerous is drowsy driving?

Many studies and experts have compared drowsy driving directly with driving drunk. Both pose serious dangers to drivers because drunk and drowsy drivers both have:

  • Trouble focusing on the road or traffic signs
  • Possible blurry vision
  • Slow reaction times
  • Difficulty staying in their lane

Drowsy drivers’ ability to operate their vehicles is inhibited, simply because they did not get proper sleep.

If I was involved in an accident with a drowsy driver, how will it affect my personal injury claim?

Drowsy driving and drunk driving may have many similarities. However, drowsy driving is not illegal. Even so, a drowsy driver is the one at fault if they caused your accident that resulted in a serious injury.

You will still have to prove the portion of the drowsy driver’s fault, but you also still have a right to recover compensation after an accident. There is no question that drowsy driving is negligent, and you should not have to suffer from another’s reckless behavior. With a personal injury attorney on your side, you can ensure you will obtain your fair compensation after a reckless motor vehicle accident.

Contact Our Attorney Today

Call us anytime if you have been injured in a collision, as it is important to secure evidence as soon as possible. In Georgia, call our Cartersville office at 678-721-0417. In Alabama, call our Auburn office at 334-604-7927. In South Carolina, call our Greenville office at 864-326-3073 or use our convenient form to set up a free initial consultation.